Continuous tremor, intervals with several explosions per day, and plumes rising to 5.5 km altitude were observed at Suwanosejima between 1 April 2013 and 14 December 2014 (BGVN 39:11). The data for this report, covering 5 January-11 September 2015, was gathered primarily from two key sources: the Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) and the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). Throughout the entire reporting period, no MODVOLC thermal anomalies were recorded, although the hazard status remained at Alert Level 2 (Do not approach the crater), on an increasing scale of 1-5. The Otake (also O-take) crater (figure 1) was the site of much of the activity during 2015.

Figure 19. Simplified map of the geology of Suwanosejima. The active crater, O-take (Oc), appears in the center of the small, sparsely populated island. Courtesy of Taketo Shimano.

In its Monthly Volcanic Activity Report for January 2015, JMA noted four explosive eruptions at the Otake crater, in addition to other occasional non-explosive eruptions. Grayish plumes accompanying the eruption rose as high as 1 km above the crater rim. On 25 January a field survey revealed a pit in the southeastern portion of the Otake crater which had formed since the previous survey on 8 November 2012.

Plumes in 2015 were reported by the VAAC in the months of January, February, April, July, August, and September. JMA served as the primary source for all of these VAAC notices; any additional sources are noted. The Tokyo VAAC reported that on 5 January ash plumes rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km and drifted NE and SE, and were also observed by pilots. The VAAC also reported an explosion on 25 January, the same day as the field survey.

The Tokyo VAAC reported that during 11-12 and 14-15 February ash plumes rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.1 km and drifted E. JMA's monthly report for February 2015 indicated that twelve explosions occurred at Otake crater, in addition to occasional, non-explosive events. Grayish plumes accompanying the explosions rose as high as 1,500 m above the crater rim. According to the Suwanosejima branch of the Toshima Village administration, ash fall was observed at Kiriishi port (located ~3.5 km S. of Otake) on 26 February.

A very small eruption at the Otake crater on 5 March 2015 was noted by JMA. An event on 13 April reported by the Tokyo VAAC generated a plume that rose to an altitude of 2.1 km and drifted N. Explosions during 24-25 April generated plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.1 km and drifted N and SE.

JMA reported a continued high activity level at the Otake crater with very small eruptions recorded on 5 and 17 May 2015. No explosions were observed at the Otake crater in June. The Tokyo VAAC reported that ash plumes from small eruptions at Otake on 30-31 July rose to altitudes of 2.1-3 km and drifted E, SW, and W, as reported by pilots and seen in satellite data. Grayish plumes accompanying the eruption rose as high as 1,300 m above the crater rim. According to the Suwanosejima branch of the Toshima Village administration, ashfall was observed in a village ~4 km SSW of Otake on 31 July.

JMA's August 2015 report described small, occasional, non-explosive events at the Otake crater, with accompanying grayish plumes rising as high as 1.2 km above the crater rim. Volcanic "glow" was observed at the Otake crater occasionally at night with a high-sensitivity camera. According to the Toshima Village administration, ashfall 4 km SSW of Otake was again present on 1, 2, and 9 August. The Tokyo VAAC reported that ash plumes identified in satellite images rose to an altitude of 4 km on 2 August, and to 1.8 km on 21 August that drifted SE.

In the September 2015 report, JMA noted that volcanic activity had remained at high levels, with 89 explosions recorded at the Otake crater; 69 of those were on 24 September, the first time more than 50 explosions a day had been observed since 30 December 2013. Plumes accompanying the events rose as high as 1,500 m above the crater rim. Crater incandescence was observed at night with a thermal camera. According to the Toshima Village administration, ashfall was once again observed in a village 4 km SSW on 7 September. The Tokyo VAAC reported that on 13 September ash plumes rose to an altitude of 1.8 km and drifted SE. JMA noted that parts of local structures shook in association with explosions that occurred on 24 September. Explosions and rumbling were heard on the island.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 24-25 August ash plumes from Suwanosejima rose to altitudes of 2.1-3 km (7,000-10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and NE.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 1 April an explosion at Suwanosejima generated a plume that rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 28 March an explosion at Suwanosejima generated a plume that rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 3-4 March explosions at Suwanosejima generated ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 9 February an explosion generated an ash plume from Suwanosejima that rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 4-5 January ash plumes from Suwanosejima rose to altitudes of 1.2-1.8 km (4,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE and W.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 17-18 December ash plumes from Suwanosejima rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE and SW.

Based on JMA notices, pilot observations, and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions at Suwanosejima on 13 December generated ash plumes that rose to an altitude of 4 km (13,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions on 23, 25, and 29 November. Ash plumes on 25 and 29 November rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.1 km (6,000-7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S and SW. On 29 November a pilot observed an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 16-17 November explosions at Suwanosejima generated ash plumes that rose to an altitude over 1.2 km (4,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S. During 20-21 November ash plumes rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 5-6 October explosions at Suwanosejima generated ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.2-2.1 km (4,000-7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE, S, and W.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 5-6 October events at Suwanosejima generated ash plumes that rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and SW.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 6
October an explosion at Suwanosejima generated ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 25-26 and 28-29 August explosions at Suwanosejima often generated ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 0.9-2.4 km (3,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W, SW, and SE.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 11-12 and 14 August ash plumes from Suwanosejima rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.7 km (6,000-9,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W and NW.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 1-2 August ash plumes from Suwanosejima rose to altitudes of 1.5-3.4 km (5,000-11,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W and SE.

Based on JMA notices, satellite-image analyses and pilot observations, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 18-19 July ash plumes from Suwanosejima rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.7 km (6,000-9,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE.

Based on JMA notices, pilot observations, and satellite data, the Tokyo VAAC reported an explosion on 14 April, and ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 0.1-2.1 km (3,000-7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W, E, SE, and S during 15 and 17-19 April.

Based on JMA notices and satellite data, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 21, 23-24, and 26 March explosions at Suwanosejima generated ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.2-2.4 km (4,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted N, W, and SE. Ash emissions continued on 27 March.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 11 March an explosion at Suwanosejima generated a plume that rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE.

Based on JMA notices and satellite-image analyses, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 2-3 and 8 March explosions at Suwanosejima generated ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.4 km (6,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and sometimes drifted SE. Explosions were also detected on 5 and 7 March.

Based on JMA notices, satellite-image analyses, and pilot observations, the Tokyo VAAC reported that ash plumes from Suwanosejima rose to altitudes of 2.1-3 km (7,000-10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E, SW, and W during 30-31 July and 4 August. On 2 August an ash plume rose to an altitude of 4 km (13,000 ft) a.s.l.

During 18-20 June, JMA reported explosions at Suwanosejima. Ash plumes were not visible in satellite images. Explosions occurred at 1346 on 18 June, 0834 on 19 June with a plume drifting E, and at 0033 on 20 June.

The Tokyo VAAC reported an explosion from Suwanosejima on 19 February. Explosions during 23-24 February produced plumes that rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. An ash plume on 24 February drifted E.

The Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanosejima during 12-14 February. On 12 February a plume rose to an altitude of 1.2 km (4,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE, and on 14 February a plume rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions from Suwanosejima during 8-9 January sometimes generated plumes that rose to an altitude 1.2 km (4,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE and SE.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima during 1-3 and 6 January. Explosions during 1-2 January generated plumes that rose to altitudes 0.9-1.8 km (3,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE. JMA noted that the Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-5).

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima during 26-30 December. Explosions during 27-28 December generated plumes that rose to an altitude over 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE.

According to the Tokyo VAAC, a pilot observed an ash plume from Suwanose-jima on 21 October. Based on information from JMA the VAAC noted that a plume rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S that same day.

According to the Tokyo VAAC, the JMA reported that during 5-6 September explosions from Suwanose-jima generated ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.1 km (6,000-7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW and N.

According to the Tokyo VAAC, the JMA reported that on 28 August pilots observed ash plumes from Suwanose-jima that rose to altitudes of 3-3.7 km (10,000-12,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and NW. Explosions during 28-29 August generated ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.1 km (6,000-7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE. Ash was detected in satellite images on 29 August, and explosions were detected on 30 August and 1 September.

Based on a pilot observation, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 14 October an ash plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 1.2 km (4,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE. Ash was not detected in satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported an explosion from Suwanose-jima on 12 September. That same day an eruption produced a plume that rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W.

Based on a pilot observation, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 5 February an ash plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 0.7 km (2,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S. Explosions during 5-7 February were noted by JMA.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima during 18-23 November. Plumes rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) on 18 November and to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE on 21 November.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima on 10 and 12 November. On 11 November a pilot reported an ash plume. A subsequent satellite image showed that the ash had dissipated. The next day, a pilot reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima during 22, 25, and 27-28 September. A pilot observed an ash plume on 22 September that rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE. JMA noted that plumes on 25 September rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions from Suwanose-jima produced plumes that rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. on 23 July and to an altitude of 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. on 26 July. Plumes drifted NW and W, respectively.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions from Suwanose-jima during 15-16 May produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted N and NW.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima during 17-19 and 21-22 February. Plumes occasionally rose to altitudes of 1.2-1.8 km (4,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and SE.

During 29-30 December 2009, a visitor to Suwanose-jima observed and photographed multiple Strombolian explosions and ash eruptions from On-take (Otake) crater. Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions during 22-26 January. On 24 and 26 January, plumes rose to altitudes of 1.2-1.5 km (4,000-5,000 ft) a.s.l.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima during 30 December-2 January and 4-5 January. Plumes rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. on 2 and 4 January, and drifted NE and E on 4 January.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions from Suwanose-jima during 4-5 November produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.2-1.8 km (4,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW and W. An explosion was also reported on 6 November.

Based on information from JMA and pilot observations, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 17 September ash from Suwanose-jima drifted S. On 19 September, an ash plume rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions from Suwanose-jima during 27-29 August sometimes produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-2.4 km (5,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions from Suwanose-jima during 16-17 August produced plumes that rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. Plumes drifted E on 16 August.

Based on a pilot observation, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 15 July an ash plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE. Eruptions reported by the JMA during 16-17 July produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE and W.

The Tokyo VAAC reported an explosion from Suwanose-jima on13 May, as stated by JMA. Details of possible resultant ash plumes were not reported. Based on analysis of satellite imagery and a pilot observation, the VAAC also reported that on 17 May an ash plume rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that eruptions from Suwanose-jima during 29 April-1 May produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. Plumes drifted W on 30 April and 1 May.

The Tokyo VAAC reported that a pilot saw an ash plume from Suwanose-jima on 22 April. JMA reported that an eruption the next day produced ash plumes to altitudes of 1.2-1.5 km (4,000-5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E and S. On 27 April, an explosion was reported but details of a possible resultant ash plume were not. On 28 April, explosions produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported an explosion from Suwanose-jima on 28 March. JMA reported three explosions on 30 March. Details of possible resultant ash plumes on either day were not reported.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 15 and 16 March eruptions from Suwanose-jima produced plumes that rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. Plumes drifted E on 15 March.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported multiple explosions from Suwanose-jima during 26 February-1 March. On 1 March, resultant plumes rose to altitudes of 1.2-1.5 km (4,000-5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. On 2 March, an eruption produced a plume to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. An explosion was reported on 3 March.

JMA reported that Suwanose-jima erupted explosively on 18 February; a colored plume rose 400 m above the crater and drifted E. Two explosive eruptions occurred the next day. Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions on 20 and 21 February. Details of possible resultant ash plumes were not reported.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 17 and 19-20 December explosions or eruptions from Suwanose-jima produced plumes to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. Plumes drifted E on 17 and 19 December.

Based on information from JMA, analysis of satellite imagery, and pilot reports, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions or eruptions from Suwanose-jima during 10-12 and 14-16 December. Plumes rose to altitudes of 0.9-1.8 km (3,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. Details of a possible ash plume on 14 and 16 December were not reported.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported an eruption from Suwanose-jima on 21 November. A plume rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. An explosion was reported on 25 November.

Based on analysis of satellite imagery and information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported multiple explosions or eruptions from Suwanose-jima during 12-16 November. Occasional plumes rose to altitudes of 1.5-2.1 km (5,000-7,000 ft) a.s.l. during 13-15 November.

Based on pilot observations and analysis of satellite imagery, the Tokyo VAAC reported that on 5 November an ash plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE. The JMA indicated that during 7-8 November explosion or eruption plumes rose to altitudes of 1.2-1.8 km (4,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. An explosion was reported on 12 November.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 29-30 October and 3 November Suwanose-jima produced explosion or eruption plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. Explosions were reported on 31 October and 1 November, but details of possible ash plumes were not reported.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that Suwanose-jima produced explosion or eruption plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.5-3 km (5,000-10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W and E during 21, 23, 25-26, and 28 October.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions from Suwanose-jima during 16 and 18-20 October produced plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.2-2.4 km (4,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W.

Based on reports from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima on 1, 3, 7, and 8 October. Plumes rose straight up to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. on 8 October. The altitude and direction of plumes were not reported for the other days.

Based on reports from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima during 25-26 and 28-29 September. Resultant plumes rose to altitudes of 1.5-3 km (5,000-10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE, E, and SW.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that an eruption plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. on 7 February and drifted E. Explosions were also noted on 8, 9, and 13 February, but altitude and direction of possible plumes were not reported.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that eruption plumes from Suwanose-jima rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. during 14-17 December and drifted E. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that eruption plumes from Suwanose-jima rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km (5,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. on 10 December and drifted W. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that eruption plumes from Suwanose-jima rose to altitudes of 1.2-1.8 km (4,000-6,000 ft) a.s.l. during 29 November-2 December and drifted E. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that eruption plumes from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. during 26-28 October and drifted E and W. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that an eruption plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. on 22 October and drifted W. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that an eruption plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. on 16 October and drifted E. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA and a pilot report, the Tokyo VAAC reported that an ash plume from Suwanose-jima rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW on 26 July. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA and satellite imagery, the Tokyo VAAC reported that an explosion from Suwanose-jima produced eruption plumes during 19-20 February. The altitude and direction of the plumes were not reported.

Based on information from JMA and satellite imagery, the Tokyo VAAC reported that an explosion from Suwanose-jima produced an eruption plume during 7 February. The altitude and direction of the plume were not reported.

Based on information from JMA and satellite imagery, the Tokyo VAAC reported that an explosion from Suwanose-jima produced an eruption plume during 5-6 February. The altitude and direction of the plume were not reported.

Based on satellite imagery and information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 4-6 November eruption plumes from Suwanose-jima reached altitudes of 1.2 km (4,000 ft) a.s.l. The plumes drifted E and SW.

On 20 September the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite caught Suwanose-jima in the process of emitting volcanic ash and steam. The volcano's emissions blew N, gradually fanning out over the ocean, with a grayish tinge that distinguished it from nearby white clouds. Aviation ash advisories for this eruption issued by the Tokyo VAAC based on satellite imagery, pilot reports, and JMA, noted that the plume rose to 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and extended about 80 km N.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions from Suwanose-jima produced eruption plumes that rose straight up to 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. on 26 August. On 28 August, eruption plumes rose to altitudes of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E. Ash was not identified on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima during 11-14 August. The resulting plumes reached maximum altitudes of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted N and W. Ash was not identified on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported explosions from Suwanose-jima during 26-30 July. The resulting plumes reached maximum altitudes of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted N. Ash was not identified on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 22-24 February several small eruptions occurred at Suwanose-jima. The highest rising plume reached ~3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. after an eruption on 23 February.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that several explosions occurred at Suwanose-jima during 6-7 February. A resultant plume from an explosion on the 6th rose to 1.2 km (4,000 ft) a.s.l. and extended NW.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that explosions occurred at Suwanose-jima on 1 and 10 January. An explosion on 10 January produced an ash plume to a height of ~1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. The heights of ash clouds from other explosions were not reported.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that an emission from Suwanose-jima on 22 September reached a height of ~1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that during 1-6 June several explosions at Suwanose-jima produced ash clouds. The only known height of an ash cloud was ~1.8 km (5,900 ft) a.s.l. from an explosion on 1 June.

On 29 December, the Tokyo VAAC reported an eruption at Suwanose-jima that produced an ash plume to ~1.2 km a.s.l. Eruptions were also reported on 1 and 4 January, but no plumes were visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that eruptions at Suwanose-jima produced ash plumes to unknown heights on 22, 24, 25, and 27 December. The plumes were not visible on satellite imagery.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that an eruption at Suwanose-jima on 20 December produced a SE-drifting plume to ~1.8 km a.s.l. Also, on 21 December an eruption produced a SE-drifting ash plume to an unknown height.

An eruption at Suwanose-jima on 9 June at 1003 produced an ash plume visible on satellite imagery at a height of ~1.8 km a.s.l., extending E. Another explosion at 1300 that day produced an ash plume that reached an unknown height.

On 7 June Suwanose-jima erupted, producing a plume to ~2 km a.s.l. that extended E. Eruptions continued through 8 June with at least one explosion producing a gas-and-ash plume to ~2 km a.s.l. that also drifted E.

According to the Tokyo VAAC, ash emitted from Suwanose-jima was reported on 28 April at a height of ~3 km a.s.l. extending SE. No ash was visible on satellite imagery. JMA reported that an explosion occurred on 1 May at 0906, but it was not known if an ash cloud was produced.

Based on information from JMA, the Tokyo VAAC reported that several small ash emissions from Suwanose-jima on 27 and 28 December rose to unknown heights. Ash from an eruption on 28 December at 0820 reached a height of ~1.5 km a.s.l. and drifted E.

Activity at Suwanose-jima was relatively low from 26 August until 12 September. On the 12th explosive eruptions began to occur frequently. According to the Suwanose-jima office of Toshima village, rumbling was intermittently heard about 4 km SSW of the summit and small amounts of ash fell. Explosions continued to occur until at least 13 September.

Eruptive activity began to decline at Suwanose-jima in comparison to the previous week. Periods of volcanic tremor occurred on the 19th and 20th. According to the Suwanose-jima office of Toshima Village, rumbling sounds were not as strong as those of the previous week, but were sometimes accompanied by the sounds of large explosions on the 20th. Small amounts of ash fell in inhabited areas about 4 km SSW of the summit on the 20th and 21st. On the afternoon of the 20th ash also fell in Naze city on Amami-oshima Island, about 140 km S of Suwanose-jima. Aerial inspections conducted during the report period by the staff of Kagoshima Meteorological Observatory revealed that an ash-rich cloud rose 1.5 km above the crater and drifted S.

Small explosive eruptions occurred at Suwanose-jima on 19 August. JMA reported that on the 19th two periods of continuous acoustic signals were recorded for 20-30 minutes each beginning around 0000 and 0630. The signals were the largest recorded thus far this year. Explosions and rumbling were heard from Toshima village, and an ash plume drifted to the SW. Volcanic tremor with continuous large acoustic signals was also recorded later in the day during 0940-0950 and 1410-1500. Small tremor events also occurred, and ash rose above the summit to an unknown height and drifted SE.

Based on information from aircraft reports and JMA, the Tokyo VAAC stated that volcanic ash from Suwanose-jima was reported on 18 June at 1058 at a height of ~6 km drifting E. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery.

On 11 October at 1400 an eruption began at Suwanose-jima. Volcanic tremor associated with the eruption was detected during 11 October through at least 15 October. Up to eleven explosions were counted. Acoustic microphones recorded four shock waves associated with large explosions.

Volcanic tremor was detected near Suwanose-jima's On-take (Otake) crater beginning on 25 July at 2200 until at least 26 July. JMA reported that an eruption on 26 July at 1430 produced a volcanic plume that rose to 1.3 km above the crater and drifted to the S. That day seismometers ~2 km SW of the crater recorded explosions at 0501, 0558, 0935, and 1055. According to the Suwanose-jima Branch of the Toshima Village Office, ash fell the morning of 26 July.

Beginning on the morning of 9 May volcanic activity increased at Suwanose-jima when a tremor event commenced. The tremor increased at 1100 and became more violent at 2100. Around noon on 11 May an eruption produced an ash cloud that rose 1-1.5 km above the crater. The Suwanose-jima Branch of Toshima village, ~4 km NNW of the active On-take (Otake) crater, reported that abundant ash fall was observed in the village on 11 May. Vigorous eruptions on the evening of 12 May and the morning of 13 May deposited up to 3 cm of ash in the village. At 0900 on 14 May the eruption seemed to have stopped. The Sakurajima Volcano Observatory reported that plumes associated with volcanic tremor events have been observed at Suwanose-jima since the new crater was formed during the December 2000 eruption.

At ~1700 on 19 December 2000, a Suwanose-jima inhabitant reported "smoke" rising NE of the summit crater. During observations from a helicopter, ash-laden smoke and high-temperature gas emissions were seen emanating from new craters. The Sakura-jima Volcano Research Center observed an increase in volcanic earthquakes deeper than 1 km below the summit in comparison to Fall 1999. They also noted an increase in volcanic earthquakes and tremor shallower than 1 km in comparison to early 2000. Researchers will continue to closely monitor the volcano.

Information is preliminary and subject to change. All times are local (unless otherwise noted)

June 1970 (CSLP 53-70)

Summit-crater explosions on 28 May

Card 0958 (10 June 1970) Summit-crater explosions on 28 May

"On-take, the summit crater of Suwanose-zima volcano exploded with large explosion sounds at 0000-0050 JST on 28 May 1970. Explosions took place with frequency of about three times a minute. Volcanic smoke at 0730 JST was 2,000-3,000 m high and these activities became quiet at about 0800 JST.

TOA (domestic) airline pilots noted unusually high "smoke" columns from On-take summit crater in July (table 1). [This crater name, used in original SEAN reports (and Volcanoes of the World), should not be confused with the volcano of the same name on Honshu.]

Table 1. Summary of explosions and other observations from Suwanose-jima, October 1975-December 1985. White vapor was emitted during days not listed in the table for 1977-78. "NVO" for 1979-October 1982 data indicates no visual observation due to bad weather. Numbers in parentheses are the local observation times. Dashes indicate no data provided or unknown. Data have been combined from monthly Bulletin tables and JMA has added data missing from original reports, including May 1984 and 1985. Courtesy of JMA.

Frequent explosions from the summit crater occurred 26-29 April (table 1). Considerable ash fell nearby from eruptive clouds that rose 3,000 m above the vent. Explosion sounds and air shocks were often detected and glow was seen on one or two occasions.

Activity has been observed only once since mid-March (table 1), in contrast to the pattern of the preceding 26 months. From January 1977-March 1979 there were 1-4 periods of tephra ejection per month, each lasting up to a few days.

Six hours of explosions; air shocks rattle doors and windows 90 km away

"On-take vent exploded on 5 September, after a few small explosions on 20 July (table 1). Explosive activity continued from about 2000 on 5 September to 0100 on 6 September. Incandescent columns rose 500 m above the crater and explosions occurred every 10 seconds during the most active stage on the 5th. Explosive sounds (rumblings) were heard at Yaku-shima Island, 90 km NE of Suwanose-jima, and windows and doors on Yaku-shima were rattled by air vibrations. Ash fell in the sea E of Suwanose-jima.

"A village of 65 people lies on Suwanose-jima Island. People there said that the activity on 5 September was one of the strongest of the many explosive periods since 1956. No damage was caused by the explosions. Explosions at the volcano had become less frequent this year than before."

A loud explosion from On-take summit crater occurred at about 0700 on 10 December, after three months of quiescence. The initial explosion produced a 1.5-km-high cloud, and smaller explosions continued for about 3 hours. Ash clouds then decreased, but ejections of incandescent material and reflected glow were seen that night. Activity decreased further to weak ash emission the next day, although glow in the summit crater were seen from the air on 12 December. The explosions caused no damage on the island.

Strombolian explosions have occurred almost every month since November 1956 from On-take, the highest point on Suwanose-jima Island. Eruptive activity has typically lasted from one to a few days. The only damage from the 1980 explosions (table 1) was caused by minor ashfalls on crops. Between explosive periods, white vapor rose a few hundred meters above the vent.

During 1981, explosions from Suwanose-jima have been recorded every month through August. Observations were made from 3 km S of the active B crater (figure 1) and from Nakano-shima Island, 26 km NE. An explosion is registered when visual observation of an eruption cloud is correlated with the sound of an explosion. Aircraft crews reported three eruption clouds: 28 June, cloud height 1.2 km; 17 July, 2.4 km; and 10 August, 2.7 km.

After two months of quiesence, Crater B was active 25-28 November. Ash was ejected on 25 November. Explosive sounds were recorded from about 0200 on the 26th. Activity intensified to register 5-6 explosions/minute from 1230 to 1700 that day, then declined to about 10/hour. From 1700 on the 27th to 0200 on the 28th about four explosions/hour were recorded. On 28 November activity was limited to continuous emission of white vapor. The ash and blocks ejected during the activity caused no damage.

No damage was reported from 1982 activity, but there was heavy ashfall on the inhabited, S end of the island on 7 October. The eruptive activity typically lasted from one to a few days. Between active periods, white vapor rose a few hundred meters above the vent.

Strombolian activity has been recorded almost every month, November 1982-January 1984 (table 1). No damage was reported, although there were often heavy ashfalls on the inhabited area of the island, along the shore 3.5 km SSW of the active vent.

Occasional Strombolian activity continued until May 1984, but no explosion sounds had been reported since June (table 1). During the afternoon of 28 June 1985, an aircraft pilot flying near Suwanose-jima saw a plume rising to an altitude of 2-2.5 km (table 1). At Nakano-shima, about 25 km NE of the volcano, slight ashfall was observed, but no explosions were heard.

Small explosions were heard by residents of the island at a rate of 5-6/day between 0500 and 1500 on 13 April. Ash plumes rose 500-600 m, sometimes accompanied by roaring sounds or air shocks. On 15 April, continued 500-600-m-high ash emission began at 0530. A Japan Air System (formerly TDA airline) pilot saw an ash cloud moving S at 1,800-2,100 m altitude (1,000-1,300 m above the summit) at 0848. A light ashfall was observed at a harbor on the island, but no explosions were heard and no air shocks were felt that day. No explosions were reported the following day.

On 1, 14, and 16 January, residents . . . heard explosions. Ash fell to the S on 21 and 24 January in the the only inhabited part of the small island. On 7 February at 1225, an explosion sound was heard, and on 28 February, a 1,000-m-high ash plume deposited large amounts of ash to the S. At 1640 on 3 March, the crew of a JAS aircraft observed a 2,000-m ash cloud. A summary of [1987-88] explosions and ashfall is shown in table 2.

. . . March-April activity is summarized in table 2. No explosions were observed in May, but several tens of explosions 22-23 June were accompanied by detonations and air shocks. Ash fell on the S part of the small island volcano, in the only inhabited area.

Explosions continued at Suwanose-jima. On 22 and 23 June 1989, several tens of eruptions were reported, accompanied by audible detonations, felt air shocks, and ashfalls on the inhabited S side of the island.

Eruptive activity was weak in the first half of 1990, but explosions became frequent in late July, and activity was most vigorous in October and November. The highest ash cloud (1,500 m) was observed, and ash-related agricultural damage was reported, in late October. Glow from the most active crater . . . was seen at night on 27 October and 10-15 November.

Late-October explosions from the summit cone of On-take produced ash clouds a few hundred meters high and caused slight ashfalls on the island. The explosions were the most vigorous since similar events in January.

Island residents reported frequent explosions, ashfalls, and rumbling in early and mid-May. Ash plumes were observed rising to 1.5-2.0 km elevation by Japanese airline pilots on 1-3 May, and a plume was visible on a NOAA weather satellite image at 1538 on 1 May.

Recently, the volcano had been active several times a year, with frequent explosions producing ash clouds and detectable ashfall. During peaks in activity, ash clouds rose to 2-3 km height and tens of small explosions occurred per minute. Eruptive episodes typically lasted for a few days to a month. Explosions had been reported earlier in 1992 on 1-4, 10, and 25-31 January, 4-14 and 21-28 February, 2-4 and 11-12 March, and 15-16 April.

Island residents reported an increase in activity on the morning of 20 October. Rumbling was heard at 2230 and frequent detonations began the following morning. Numerous blocks were ejected on 22 October with explosive activity decreasing after the 23rd. Explosions in 1992 had been reported 1-3 times a month through May, and on 2 June, 9-10 July, 21-24 September, and 11 October.

Eruptive activity in mid-August caused ashfall on this island and on other islands 100 km NE. Pilots from six domestic airlines reported ash clouds up to 3 km above sea level near the volcano on 14-18 August. Seismic monitoring equipment on the island detected no unusual activity.

Intermittent weak eruptions throughout 1994 cause ashfall on the island

Weak ash eruptions were observed and explosion sounds were heard by local residents throughout 1994. Heavy ash sometimes fell in a village on the island. Occasional ash emissions occurred in mid-February, with ashfall reported on the 11th. Emissions began again in mid-March, with ash falls on the island on 19 and 27 March. The next month, ash eruptions took place on 3-4 and 30 April. Frequent ash ejections during 8-12 May also caused ashfall on the island; detonations were heard on the 8th. Ash ejections were again observed on 14-21 and 29-30 July, with ashfall on the 15th and 20th. Detonations and ashfall were again reported on 12 August. Ashfall was frequent in September and the second half of October, with larger volumes on 13-14 and 31 October. Ash emission in December was observed at the beginning and end of the month, with ashfall on 1-4 and 31 December; rumbling was heard the night of the 3rd.

Eruptive activity took place from March to June and from August to December 1995. Some ashfalls were observed at a village 4 km SSW of the crater. The two historically active summit craters and typically have Strombolian eruptions.

Monitoring from the Sakurajima Volcanological Observatory revealed nine explosions from Suwanose-jima in 1995. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency and the Kagoshima Prefectural Government, small eruptions during 10-13 January 1996 sent plumes 300-600 m above the volcano and caused ashfall to the S. Activity has been high since 1950, with 1-2 ash emissions every month, and some Strombolian explosions.

Weak ash eruptions were observed on 5 and 6 March; occasional ashfalls were reported on the island. Nine explosions were observed in 1995 and there were small eruptions during 10-13 January (BGVN 21:01). Activity has been high since 1950.

On 2 June, an aviation notice to airmen (NOTAM) indicated a volcanic ash cloud to 4,600 m emanating from Suwanose-jima. A second NOTAM at 1515 on 2 June noted that the ash cloud top was at 2,100 m. No discernible ash plume was evident in GMS satellite data from the Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) through 1732 on 2 June.

The Kagoshima Prefectural Government confirmed to JMA that emissions on 1-2 June caused ashfall. Ashfall was also observed on the island on 4 June.

The Sakura-jima Volcanological Observatory of Kyushu University reported that activity has continued at the same level since 1994, with nearly constant A-type earthquakes. Ash emissions have occurred this year on 10-13 January, 23 February, 5-6 March, and 14 April. The eruption column in March rose 500 m above the volcano.

An ash column 500-600 m high above the summit resulted in ashfall starting at about noon on 24 March and continuing until the evening of the following day. Ash emissions on 16-17 April sent a column 500-700 m high. Seismicity was characterized by numerous B-type earthquakes in March (~50/month), and by volcanic tremors during April (~ 200/month).

An observer on Suwanose-jima reported seeing "smoke" rise from NE of the summit crater at about 1700 on 19 December 2000. The following day, Kazuhiro Ishihara from Sakura-jima Volcano Research Center (SVRC, formerly Sakura-jima Volcano Observatory, SVO) of Kyoto University inspected the crater area during a helicopter flyover. He observed an ash-laden, high-temperature gas emission from the main active crater, On-take, and from two newly formed craters on the outer NE slope of the main crater (figures 2 and 3).

Figure 3. Photo of the NE slope of Suwanose-jima showing the main active crater (1), On-take, and two subsidiary craters (2, 3). Courtesy of SVRC.

Subsequent observations on 24 December by Masato Iguchi and Daisuke Miki, both of SVRC, revealed more about the nature of the craters' activities. Craters 2 and 3 were ~40 m and ~200 m away from the main crater rim, respectively. Crater 2 had a diameter of ~25 m, and crater 3 had a diameter of ~10 m. The craters were thermally surveyed from a helicopter. On-take (crater 1) had a temperature of ~450°C, and emitted light-colored vapor. Crater 2 released an ash-laden plume and had a temperature of ~100°C. Crater 3, which had a temperature of ~270°C, ejected gas and a small amount of ash.

Seismicity recorded by SVRC showed that ~10 deep volcanic (A-type) earthquakes occurred monthly, an increase since fall 1999. Shallow volcanic (B-type) earthquakes had also increased since early 2000 with the occurrence of ~50-300 events monthly. Researchers using GPS techniques discovered that deformation had increased the distance between Suwanose-jima and Nakano-shima, a neighboring island, by 1 cm. SVRC indicated that activity was elevated, but that it did not imply an immediate large-scale eruption.

Several eruptions occurred at Suwanose-jima in May-July 2001. Beginning on the morning of 9 May 2001 volcanic activity increased at Suwanose-jima when a tremor event commenced (figure 4). The tremor increased at 1100 and became more violent at 2100.

Figure 4. Daily eruptions, tremor events, and B and A earthquakes registered at Suwanose-jima up to 11 May. Here, an eruption is defined as a volcanic earthquake, associated with an acoustic signal of more than 1 Pa. Courtesy of the Japanese Meteorological Agency.

On 11 May an eruption produced ash clouds that rose to 1.8-7.6 km altitude. A seismo-acoustical record of an eruption signal on 10 May is shown on figure 5. Abundant ash fell on 11 May ~ 4 km NNW of the active On-take (Otake) crater (at Toshima village).

Figure 5. Seismo-acoustical record of an eruption signal received at Suwanose-jima on 10 May. The bottom panel shows the requisite acoustic signal that was recorded by a microphone. Courtesy of the Japanese Meteorological Agency.

Vigorous eruptions on the evening of 12 May and the morning of 13 May deposited up to 3 cm of ash in the village (figure 6). At 0900 on 14 May the eruption seemed to have stopped.

Figure 6. Photo taken from a helicopter of the beginning of the 12 May eruption at Suwanose-jima. Courtesy of the Japanese Meteorological Agency.

The Sakurajima Volcano Observatory also reported that plumes associated with volcanic tremor events have been observed at Suwanose-jima since the new crater was formed during the December 2000 eruption.

Volcanic tremor was also detected near Suwanose-jima's On-take (Otake) crater beginning at 2200 on 25 July and lasting until at least 26 July. JMA reported that an eruption on 26 July at 1430 produced a volcanic plume that rose to 1.3 km above the crater and drifted to the S. That day seismometers ~2 km SW of the crater recorded explosions at 0501, 0558, 0935, and 1055. Ash fell on Toshima the morning of 26 July.

Volcanic tremor, plumes, and ash eruptions during October 2001-August 2002

The Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that, following the latest eruptive activity that had ended on 30 July, an eruption began around 1400 on 11 October 2001 at Otake Crater. Volcanic tremor had started around 1200 on 11 October and continued through 15 October. Up to 11 explosions occurred. An acoustic microphone installed on the island recorded four shock waves associated with larger explosions.

On 18 June 2002 during 1130-1300 a plume was observed (figure 7), and on the morning of 19 August 2002, JMA issued a volcanic advisory for Suwanose-jima. Volcanic tremor events associated with continuous acoustic signals (the largest so far in 2002) occurred for 20- to 30-minute periods around 0000 and 0630, and also during 0940-0950, 1410-1500, 1810-1815, and 1920-1930. Small tremor events also occurred. Witnesses in Toshima village heard continuous rumblings and explosion sounds every 2-3 seconds. The summit was covered with clouds and abundant ash drifted SW and SE. The summit crater emitted steam to an unknown height. A large plume was seen on satellite imagery on 19 August (figure 8). Eruption clouds were visible on 10, 16, and 20 August 2002 (figure 9).

Figure 7. Satellite image of the plume from Suwanose-Jima volcano observed at 1132 (local time) on 18 June 2002. The plume was visible from 1130-1300. Courtesy Charles Holliday, AFWA.

Figure 9. Eruption clouds emitted from Suwanose-jima at 1640 on 10 August 2002. The clouds were observed through live camera images provided by the Satellite Image Network Group (SiNG). Courtesy N. Uchida, JMA.

On 21 and 22 August JMA reported that eruptive activity continued but at a lower level. On 20 August, volcanic tremor events occurred during 0115-0120 and 0625-0655. Witnesses in Toshima village reported that the rumbling noises became weaker, though they were sometimes accompanied by large explosion sounds. Ashfall occurred in Naze city on Amami-oshima island (~140 km S) during the afternoon. Faint ashfall was observed ~4 km SSW of the summit on 20 and 21 August.

Observations from the air on 21 August revealed the December 2000 crater (BGVN 26:02) generating an ash cloud to 1.5 km above the crater that was drifting S.

Ash explosions in September and December 2002, and activity in January 2003

Though the volcano had been relatively quiet since 26 August 2002 (BGVN 27:07), the Japan Meteorological Agency reported that explosive eruptions became frequent on the morning of 12 September 2002. Rumbling was heard intermittently at a location ~4 km SSW of the summit, and light ashfall was observed on 12 September. Explosions occurred at 0816, 1246, 1746, and 1754 on 12 September, and at 0853, 1016, and 1027 on 13 September.

A pilot report contained in the Kagoshima Airport weather observation issued at 1000 on 5 December 2002 noted a plume estimated to be between 900 and 1,200 m altitude. The U.S. Air Force Weather Agency noted that the plume was also seen on DMSP (Defense Meteorological Satellite Program) imagery at 1034 and on NASA Terra MODIS imagery at 1055 on 5 December.

The REAL-Volc Project at the Volcano Research Center, Earthquake Research Institute, University of Tokyo, has detected several thermal anomalies on Suwanose-jima since they started an AVHRR monitoring system in 2001. Anomalies were seen on 11 October 2001, 20 November 2001, 30 December 2001, 20 April 2002, and 12 January 2003.

Sporadic eruptions in 2003 and in January 2004, one to 2.4 km altitude

Suwanose-jima volcano was last reported in BGVN 28:04, when activity was noted in September and December 2002, with thermal anomalies continuing into January 2003. HIGP MODIS thermal imagery revealed only one alert in the year to 13 April 2004, that being on 4 July 2003. NASA Terra and Defense Meteorological Satellite Program imagery dated 7-8 November 2003 showed an ash plume rising from Suwanose-jima to an estimated height of 2,400 m (figure 10) on those days.

Figure 10. Ash plume from Suwanose-jima on 8 November 2003 imaged by the MODIS instrument on the NASA AQUA satellite. Courtesy Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) and Charles Holliday.

According to Tokyo VAAC reports, using information from the Japanese Meteorological Agency, explosions also took place at Suwanose-jima on 15 December 2003 at 1946, and 21 December at 1828, each of which produced plumes to an unknown height. The VAAC reported several small emissions on 27 and 28 December, again rising to unknown heights and an eruption on 28 December at 0820 rising to ~ 1.5 km altitude and extending E. On 2, 4 and 21-22 January 2004 small explosions produced ash plumes to unknown heights.

Several small eruptions during December 2003 and January 2004 at Suwanose-jima produced ash plumes to unknown heights (BGVN 29:03). Little activity was observed during the first four months of 2004. From the end of April 2004 to the end of July 2005, numerous eruptions and explosions produced plumes reported by the Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), including some observed by pilots (table 3).

Table 3. Summary of activity at Suwanose-jima from April 2004 to July 2005 based on information from the Tokyo VAAC. "?" indicates data not reported or unknown.

Suwanose-jima, in the East China sea, is one of Japan's most active volcanoes. Our last report on Suwanose-jima (BGVN 30:07) tabulated the seismicity and the numerous ash plumes seen between April 2004 and July 2005. The current report continues the tabulation from August 2005 to December 2007 (table 4).

Table 4. Summary of activity reported at Suwanose-jima from August 2005 to December 2007, based on information from the Tokyo VAAC. "?" indicates that data were not reported.

During the reporting interval, the Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center reported small explosions or eruptions, usually accompanied by ash plumes, every month during this period, except for November and December 2005, May 2006, and June 2007. Ash was seldom identified on satellite imagery. On 20 September 2006, the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Terra satellite detected ash-and-steam emissions (figure 11).

Figure 11. Ash plume blowing N from Suwanose-jima on 20 September 2006, seen in a MODIS image. In color images the plume's hue clearly distinguishes it from the banks of transversely oriented white weather clouds. NASA image created by Jesse Allen, Earth Observatory, using data provided courtesy of the MODIS Rapid Response team.

Our last Bulletin (BGVN 3211) covered eruptive activity during July 2005 to December 2007. This issue covers eruptions recorded by the Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) from December 2007 to March 2008. Kinoshita and others (2003) noted that Sakura-jima "has been the most eruptive in Japan, with the eruption columns a few kilometers above the crater occasionally."

Table 5 summarizes information gathered by the Tokyo VAAC from observers between 9 December 2007 and 21 March 2008. In all cases the VAAC could not detect plumes using satellite data. An overview of satellite and image monitoring of Suwanose-jima appears in an article by Kinoshita and others (2003).

Table 5. A summary of Tokyo VAAC reports on ash plumes from Suwanose-jima during 9 December 2007 to 21 March 2008. Cases with only dashes in the data fields were when observers detected an explosion but they were unable to say more about a resulting plume. In many of the examples given, there were multiple Volcanic Ash Advisories issued, but no new data came to light. Courtesy of the Tokyo VAAC.

Historically, Suwanose-jima (figure 12) has been one of Japan's most frequently active volcanoes. Our last report on Suwanose-jima, (BGVN 33:02) listed ash plumes between 9 December 2007 and 21 March 2008. This report continues the list through 26 October 2008.

Figure 12. Simplified map of the geology of Suwanose-jima. The active crater, O-take (Oc), appears at the southern end of the small, sparsely populated island. Courtesy of Taketo Shimano.

According to a 2008 International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) report, the Tokyo VAAC issued 70 volcanic ash advisories for Suwanose-jima during the 17-month period of January 2007-May 2008. This included seven from January through May 2008 (ICAO, 2008). Table 6 summarizes reports of explosive events and plumes for January-October 2008.

Table 6. A summary of Tokyo VAAC reports on explosive events and resulting ash plumes from Suwanose-jima from April through October 2008 (continued from table in BGVN 33:02). For some events, observers detected an explosion but were unable to observe a resulting plume. Courtesy of Tokyo VAAC, based on information from the Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) or pilot reports.

NASA satellite observation of 19 October 2008. According to the NASA MODIS Rapid Response team and the NASA Earth Observatory, the volcano released a continuous plume of ash and steam in late October 2008. They noted that a Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) captured an image of an ash plume on 19 October 2008. In this image, the plume formed a rippling pattern as it blew WSW. The plume differed from the nearby clouds in both its slightly darker color and more diffuse shape. Near the summit, the plume appeared beige.

Table 8. A summary of Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) reports on explosive events and ash plumes from Suwanose-jima, 29 October 2008 to 6 July 2009. For some events, observers detected an explosion but were unable to observe a plume (NR indicates not reported). Courtesy of Tokyo VAAC, based on information from the Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA), pilot reports, and satellite imagery.

Yukio Hayakawa passed along quantitative data on the explosive eruption on 18 February 2009. The maximum amplitude of ground velocity computed from the analog data was expressed in units of 10-5 m/s (in Japan this unit is expressed as mkine). The values on the 18th were 5.38 x 10-5 m/s; and the airwave was 11 Pa. Hayakawa also indicated that the two explosive eruptions on 20 February had maximum amplitudes of 4.31 x 10-5 m/s and 5.76 x 10-5 m/s, respectively. The airwaves recorded were 20 and 18 Pa, respectively at microphones.

A visible-wavelength image from MODIS captured a small Suwanose-jima plume on 5 July 2009 (figure 13). As of mid-2009, no thermal alerts had been recorded by MODVOLC since 22 September 2008. The island is often covered by clouds, thwarting detection.

Figure 13. Image of Suwanose-jima taken on 5 July 2009 by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Aqua satellite. A beige-colored plume fans out and remains conspicuous for ~ 18 km to the NE blowing toward the island of Yaku-shima. Courtesy of NASA Earth Observatory and the US Air Force Weather Agency.

In a previous report (BGVN 34:07) we discussed ash plume data from the Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) and reports from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) that covered explosive activity based on infrasound measurements and seismicity during October 2008 to July 2009. Many explosions were heard and felt but cloud cover obscured direct observations. From 6 July 2009 to 14 July 2011 the Tokyo VAAC reported 234 explosions; 62 of which produced a measurable ash plume (table 9) from the summit crater, On-take (also called Otake).

Table 9. A summary of Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) reports on measured ash plumes from Suwanose-jima, 15 July 2009 to 14 July 2011. Courtesy of Tokyo VAAC, based on information from the JMA, pilot reports, and satellite imagery.

JMA stated that this volcano has erupted every year since 1956. The activity alert status for Suwanose-jima was Level 2 (on a 1 to 5 scale where 5 is the highest) from December 2007 to July 2011; this status indicates that the crater is too dangerous to visit.

Activity during late 2009. The Tokyo VAAC reported frequent plumes from mid-August through December 2009. The tallest plumes, above 1.5 km altitude, occurred on 16-17 and 29 August, and 5 and 26 November (table 9). According to JMA, a visitor during 29-30 December 2009 saw Strombolian eruptions.

Activity during 2010. Ash plumes up to ~ 2.4 km altitude were reported by the Tokyo VAAC on many days throughout the year (table 9).

Based on the seismic record, JMA was able to infer when explosions occurred within the crater. The number of these explosions decreased from 64 in January to 0 in June; from July to September there were less than 20 monthly explosions, but activity appeared to peak in November when 94 explosions were recorded.

Aerial observations were made in collaboration with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) on 14 December (figure 14). The flight confirmed high temperature areas at both the summit crater's center and at the lower, outer rim. Thes results were congruent with those obtained earlier, in December 2009, and JMA concluded that similar conditions prevailed in the crater during this interval.

Figure 14. Thermal imaging of Suwanose-jima's summit crater, On-take, taken on 14 December 2010. On the false-color scale (calibrated at right), the highest temperatures are white, the lowest temperatures are blue, showing values in Celsius. The maximum temperature from photo B is 442.5°C; maximum temperature from photo D is 106.1°C. Courtesy of JMA; photos by the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF), Kanoya Air Base.

Activity during 2011. Ash plumes were reported by the Tokyo VAAC for January, February, April, and July; the tallest occurred on July 14 and reached ~ 3.6 km altitude (table 9). From January to July 2011, volcanic earthquakes and tremor remained relatively high (figure 15).

A 2.9-magnitude earthquake centered below Suwanose-jima occurred on 3 February 2011 at 2206. That month, local inhabitants reportedly felt 17 earthquakes. No surface change was observed before or after the earthquakes. Surveillance in February 2011 included visual observations by the Coast Guard.

Immediately after the 11 March 2011 Tohoku Earthquake (M 9.0, located offshore of Honshu, Japan) instruments at Suwanose-jima recorded increases in high-frequency (A-type) earthquakes. A-type earthquakes are generally considered to have shallow focal depths; B-type earthquakes, deeper focal depths.

Ash explosions seemingly rarely occurred through March 2011, but reports from Toshimamura village stated that observers there had seen ballistics thrown from the summit crater. Due to prolonged poor weather, surveillance cameras did not record this activity. JMA reported that plume heights for April, May, and June 2011 remained at background levels, with maximum heights of 0.4?1.0 km. Intermittent incandescence was recorded with surveillance cameras when clear weather allowed observations at night from March through June.

Our last report covered beharior at Suwanose-jima through July 2011 (BGVN 36:07). This report, compiling translated material from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), covers ongoing activity through June 2012, with minor magnitude venting at Otake crater and the tallest plume rising to 1 km over the crater rim. Throughout the reporting period, the volcano’s crater produced weak glow at night that was imaged by a high-sensitivity camera. The Alert Level remained at Level 2 (on a scale from 1-5, access to the crater area prohibited due to threat of eruption). As summarized in the text, numbers of A- and B-type events were in the ranges of 11-24 and 62-205, respectively. There were multiple cases of ashfall at Toshima village (“Toshimamura”), 4 km SSW from the summit crater.

The table below summarizes some other information reported by JMA, including a tally of small eruption heights. Tremor duration extended to over 50 hours during several months and to 132 hours in June 2012.

Explosive eruptions from Otake crater occurred on 9 and 12 September 2011. A temporal increase in seismicity, including intermittent tremor, was observed during 9-14 September, later dropping to background level. Ash fell at Toshimamura on 7, 9, 12, 15, and 18 September.

Small-scale eruptions were observed in October and November 2011. Ashfall was reported at Toshimamura on 15 November.

Aerial observations were conducted in cooperation with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) on 19 December 2011. They revealed a high temperature area at the center of Otake crater.

GPS measurements showed no remarkable crustal change between January and June 2012. GPS data from Tongama ceased starting in mid-May due to a technical failure.

During May, there were 11 A-type events and 205 B-type events. Noteable volcanic tremor occurred on 5 and 25-26 May. Toshima village registered ashfall on 25 and 28-30 May.

Toshima village again reported ashfall on 11 and 13-14 June 2012. During June instruments detected 21 A-type events and 116 B-type events. Volcanic tremor was registered during 2?22 June 2012 (table 10).

This report discusses Suwanose-jima (figure 16) during July 2012 through April 2013, an interval with generally abundant tremor, low numbers of earthquakes, weak plumes (less than 0.7 km above the crater rim), and occasional intermittent eruptions. Our previous report on Suwanose-jima discussed seismicity through June 2012 that included volcanic earthquakes and tremor, minor explosions, and plumes which occasionally deposited ash on nearby Toshima village as late as June 2012 (BGVN 37:08).

Recent monthly reports of volcanic activity from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) translated into English resumed in October 2010. Since June 2012, English-translated JMA reports on Suwanose-jima were available online every month through March 2013

According to JMA, seismic activity at Suwanose-jima remained at low levels between July 2012 and March 2013. Although explosive eruptions have occurred repeatedly in the past, no such eruption occurred during the reporting period. However, JMA reported infrequent tiny eruptions. Volcanic tremor occurred almost continually between 28 September 2012 and March 2013. A high-sensitivity camera often detected a weak night glow during every month. No unusual ground deformation was seen in GPS observation data. Table 11 summarizes tremor activity and other information reported by JMA.

Table 11. A compilation of data on Suwanose-jima between July 2012 and March 2013. '-' indicates data not reported. A-type earthquakes are generally considered to have shallow focal depths; B-type earthquakes, deeper focal depths. An asterisk "*" in the earthquake column indicates that the number of events reported for a specific month conflicts with the number reported for that same month in the sequential monthly JMA report. Data courtesy of JMA.

On 8 November 2012, a field survey at Bunka crater revealed no remarkable change in the crater's shape. Infrared images showed no significant change in the crater's temperature distribution. On 26 December 2012, an aerial observation revealed a red-hot lava mass inside Otake crater. This phenomenon has occasionally been observed in past observations.

On 19 February 2013, a M 3.6 earthquake occurred (apparently at Suwanose-jima). The earthquake's maximum seismic intensity on JMA's scale was 3 (felt indoors by most or all people, objects rattle and fall off tables, houses shake strongly and may receive slight damage). In addition, a swarm of ten earthquakes (aftershocks?) with seismic intensities of 1 or greater on JMA's scale were recorded. These earthquakes caused no significant changes in surface phenomena or tiltmeter data. Seismicity remained at low levels, with hypocenters located just beneath the Otake crater.

This report covers activity at Suwanose-jima from 1 April 2013 to 31 December 2014. The previous Bulletin report (BGVN 38:04) detailed near-continuous tremor, a few earthquakes, and occasional ash plumes and eruptions during July 2012 through April 2013. This reporting period includes continuous tremor, intervals with several explosions per day, and plumes rising up to 5.5 km above sea level (a.s.l.). The data was gathered primarily from two key sources: the Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) and the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), who publishes monthly reports on Japanese volcanic activity (URL in Information contacts section).

The map in figure 17 highlights the location of the Otake crater (elevation of 796 m, also called Ontake crater), which was the source of the plumes, explosions, and other activity at Suwanose-jima during this reporting interval. The map was published by the JMA and also depicts the locations of monitoring sites for the volcano.

Figure 17. A map indicating monitoring sites and topography, with a contour interval of 20 m. The Otake crater is located in the center of the island. Seismometers (circles), infrasonic microphones (circles with crosses), tiltmeters (triangles), GPS (stars), and visual cameras (binoculars) were situated on the nearby slopes by several agencies. The Disaster Prevention Research Institute (DPRI) utilizes the light blue units, the JMA the red units, and the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan (GSI) the orange unit. Source: Iguchi and Ito (date unknown) with slight changes by Bulletin editors.

2013. According to the JMA (monthly reports), the Alert Level at Suwanose-jima constantly remained at 2 (on an increasing scale of 1–5). At night, high-sensitivity cameras regularly observed weak crater glow. A series of almost-continuous tremors began on 28 September 2012 and persisted through 2013.

During the month of April, the JMA noted that the tremor lasted for a total of 677 hours and 50 minutes. On 13 April 2013, the Otake crater had a minor eruption with plumes rising to 0.7 km above the crater.

The Otake crater did not erupt during May and June 2013. In May, white plumes generally rose to 0.2–0.3 km above the crater; the tallest plume reached 0.5 km. There was “no remarkable change in plume activity” in June, according to the JMA. During the month of May, a nearly continuous tremor lasted for a total duration of 704 hours and 54 minutes. It stopped on 1 June 2013 and then resumed on 12 June.

On 9 July 2013, a pilot reported an ash plume to 1.5 km a.s.l. However, the Tokyo VAAC was unable to detect ash in satellite images. Continuous tremor occurred from mid-June to 15 July and from 24 to 30 July. On 29 July, an earthquake occurred near Suwanose-jima, with a magnitude of 3.2 and a seismic intensity of 2 (an increasing scale of 0–7).

The International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior (IAVCEI) conducted a field trip to the volcano during 15 and 18 July 2013 (figure 18). They found the volcano quiet, releasing only short, white plumes.

Figure 18.Photos taken from 16–18 July during a field trip associated with the IAVCEI 2013 Scientific Assembly. Additional photos can be found on Volcano Discovery.

(Top) Otake crater, facing NE. A thin, white plume rises from the crater and is shown in greater detail in the zoomed photo on the upper right.

(Bottom, left) Crater from which the 1813 subplinian Bunka eruption originated. (Bottom, middle) Flank of old cinder cone within the rift zone. The ground in this area was covered by spatter agglutinate from the 1813 eruption. (Bottom, right) Scoria and ash deposits in the NE cliff of the island. Source: Pfeiffer (2013), labeled by Bulletin editors.

On 25 August 2013 at 1904 LT, the Otake crater erupted, and intermittent explosive eruptions continued from 26 August onwards. On 27 August, plumes rose to ~1.2 km a.s.l. and drifted NE/SE. On 28 August, ash plumes beginning at 0910 LT rose to altitudes of 1.8–2.1 km, drifting NE and 3–3.7 km a.s.l., drifting E/NW. There was a total of 16 explosive eruptions during August. The above crater height of the resultant grayish white plumes generally ranged from 0.5–0.8 km, with the tallest plumes reaching ~1.5 km above the crater. Tremor occurred near continuously during 2–4, 11–14, and 25–31 August. Satellites utilized by the VAAC detected ash on 29 August, and from 30 August to 1 September, they detected explosions as well.

During September 2013, the Otake crater erupted explosively 6 times. Explosions occurred from 5–6 September with ash plumes rising to 1.8–2.1 km a.s.l., beginning at 0655 LT on the 5th and drifting NW/N. On 12 September, ash plumes rose to 1.8 km a.s.l., drifting NW. During 29–30 September, ash plumes rose to 1.5 km a.s.l., drifting W and volcanic blocks were scattered around the crater on the 29th. Plumes in September generally rose above the crater to less than 1 km and the maximum height was 1.4 km. Earthquakes were felt near to Suwanose-jima on 10, 21, and 26 September 2013. The seismic intensity was 1 and tremor occurred intermittently.

During October, minor explosions occurred at the Otake crater during 13–15 and 21–22 October. Gray plumes from those eruptions generally rose above the crater to less than 0.6 km, with a maximum height of 1 km above the crater. Earthquakes were felt near the volcano on 9 October 2013. The seismic intensity was 2 and tremor occurred intermittently. On 21 October, an ash plume rose to 1.5 km a.s.l., heading S.

On 27 November 2013, the Otake crater erupted explosively 7 times, causing a scattering of volcanic projectiles around the crater. The eruption formed a plume that rose 1.8 km a.s.l., drifting E. In addition, Otake erupted occasionally throughout the month, with gray plumes above the crater generally rising to less than 0.6 km and a maximum plume height of 1 km. Tremor occurred intermittently.

Between 26 and 31 December 2013, Otake erupted 247 times, according to the JMA December 2013 report. From 27–28 December, plumes from Suwanose-jima rose to ~1.5 km a.s.l., drifting SE. On 28 December, small amounts of ashfall were observed in Toshima Village, ~4 km S/SW of Otake. According to the village administration, air shocks rattled windows and sliding doors from 28–29 December and crater glow was observable at night. On 29 December 2013, 125 explosions occurred, along with tremor and airshocks from ~0000 to 0300 LT. This indicated “consecutive eruptions,” according to the JMA, with gray plumes rising to 0.6 km above the crater. The eruption ejected volcanic projectiles around the crater.

2014. (Note that information for activity during May, July, and October 2014 was unavailable, with an absence of VAAC reports for these intervals.) During January, the Otake crater exploded 23 times, with volcanic projectiles scattering around the crater. The Tokyo VAAC noted explosions during 1–3 and 6 January. Between 1 and 2 January, explosions formed plumes to 0.9–1.8 km a.s.l., drifting SE. The explosions were heard in Toshima village, until the 3rd. During 8 to 9 January, explosions generated plumes, which rose to 1.2 km a.s.l. and drifted NE/SE. The VAAC noted an explosion on 24 January, generating a plume that rose to 1.8 km a.s.l. Minor ashfall was observed on 1, 6, and 23 January.

During February 2014, the Otake crater exploded 7 times (on 2, 12, 19, and 23–24 February), with plumes reaching a maximum height of 1.2 km above the crater. On 2 February, the explosion at 1638 LT formed an ash plume to 1.8–3 km a.s.l. that blew SE/SSE. On 12 February, the generated plume rose to 1.2 km a.s.l. and drifted SE, and on 14 February, a plume rose to an altitude of 1.8 km a.s.l. During 23 to 24 February, plumes rose to 1.8 km a.s.l. and drifted E. Volcanic seismicity for February was high and tremor occurred occasionally.

On 1 March 2014, the Otake crater erupted explosively. All other eruptions during March were minor and sporadic in occurrence. Plumes rose to a maximum height of 0.8 km above the crater. The volcanic seismicity was high and tremor occurred occasionally.

On 29 April, the Otake crater erupted explosively twice and the resulting plumes rose to 1.2 km a.s.l., heading E. All other eruptions during April were once again minor and sporadic in occurrence. Plumes reached a maximum height of 0.8 km above the crater.

During June 2014, the Otake crater erupted several times, with explosions on 18 June at 2246 LT, on 19 June at 1734 LT with a plume heading E, and on 20 June at 0933 LT. VAAC satellite imagery did not indicate any ash within the plumes.

Between 28 August and 1 September, eruptions resulted in ash plumes rising to 1.8–2.7 km a.s.l. and drifting S/SE/E/NE. Several eruptions occurred during the first week of September, with ash plumes rising to 1.8–5.5 km a.s.l. on 3 September beginning at 1109 LT, 5.5 km a.s.l. on 4 September at 1833 LT, and 2.1 km a.s.l. on 9 September at 2233 LT.

On 14 November 2014, the Tokyo VAAC reported an explosion, with a plume rising to 1.8 km a.s.l. and drifting SE.

SO2 emissions. Morita and others (2013) conducted an analysis of SO2 emissions at Suwanose-jima between 20 January and 7 May 2013. Using a UV spectrometer, Ocean Optics USB2000+, they obtained 3 to 15 minute long scans from between 0800 and 1700 LT. The average daily SO2 emission rate was ~700 tons/day (t/d), and ranged between 300 and 1300 t/d. These emission numbers are comparable to those at Suwanose-jima between 1975 and 2006, when the SO2 fluctuated between 300 and 1,130 t/d (Mori and others, 2013). The researchers also found positive correlations between seismic amplitude and released puffs with associated increases in SO2 emissions.

Continuous tremor, intervals with several explosions per day, and plumes rising to 5.5 km altitude were observed at Suwanosejima between 1 April 2013 and 14 December 2014 (BGVN 39:11). The data for this report, covering 5 January-11 September 2015, was gathered primarily from two key sources: the Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) and the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). Throughout the entire reporting period, no MODVOLC thermal anomalies were recorded, although the hazard status remained at Alert Level 2 (Do not approach the crater), on an increasing scale of 1-5. The Otake (also O-take) crater (figure 1) was the site of much of the activity during 2015.

Figure 19. Simplified map of the geology of Suwanosejima. The active crater, O-take (Oc), appears in the center of the small, sparsely populated island. Courtesy of Taketo Shimano.

In its Monthly Volcanic Activity Report for January 2015, JMA noted four explosive eruptions at the Otake crater, in addition to other occasional non-explosive eruptions. Grayish plumes accompanying the eruption rose as high as 1 km above the crater rim. On 25 January a field survey revealed a pit in the southeastern portion of the Otake crater which had formed since the previous survey on 8 November 2012.

Plumes in 2015 were reported by the VAAC in the months of January, February, April, July, August, and September. JMA served as the primary source for all of these VAAC notices; any additional sources are noted. The Tokyo VAAC reported that on 5 January ash plumes rose to altitudes of 1.5-1.8 km and drifted NE and SE, and were also observed by pilots. The VAAC also reported an explosion on 25 January, the same day as the field survey.

The Tokyo VAAC reported that during 11-12 and 14-15 February ash plumes rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.1 km and drifted E. JMA's monthly report for February 2015 indicated that twelve explosions occurred at Otake crater, in addition to occasional, non-explosive events. Grayish plumes accompanying the explosions rose as high as 1,500 m above the crater rim. According to the Suwanosejima branch of the Toshima Village administration, ash fall was observed at Kiriishi port (located ~3.5 km S. of Otake) on 26 February.

A very small eruption at the Otake crater on 5 March 2015 was noted by JMA. An event on 13 April reported by the Tokyo VAAC generated a plume that rose to an altitude of 2.1 km and drifted N. Explosions during 24-25 April generated plumes that rose to altitudes of 1.8-2.1 km and drifted N and SE.

JMA reported a continued high activity level at the Otake crater with very small eruptions recorded on 5 and 17 May 2015. No explosions were observed at the Otake crater in June. The Tokyo VAAC reported that ash plumes from small eruptions at Otake on 30-31 July rose to altitudes of 2.1-3 km and drifted E, SW, and W, as reported by pilots and seen in satellite data. Grayish plumes accompanying the eruption rose as high as 1,300 m above the crater rim. According to the Suwanosejima branch of the Toshima Village administration, ashfall was observed in a village ~4 km SSW of Otake on 31 July.

JMA's August 2015 report described small, occasional, non-explosive events at the Otake crater, with accompanying grayish plumes rising as high as 1.2 km above the crater rim. Volcanic "glow" was observed at the Otake crater occasionally at night with a high-sensitivity camera. According to the Toshima Village administration, ashfall 4 km SSW of Otake was again present on 1, 2, and 9 August. The Tokyo VAAC reported that ash plumes identified in satellite images rose to an altitude of 4 km on 2 August, and to 1.8 km on 21 August that drifted SE.

In the September 2015 report, JMA noted that volcanic activity had remained at high levels, with 89 explosions recorded at the Otake crater; 69 of those were on 24 September, the first time more than 50 explosions a day had been observed since 30 December 2013. Plumes accompanying the events rose as high as 1,500 m above the crater rim. Crater incandescence was observed at night with a thermal camera. According to the Toshima Village administration, ashfall was once again observed in a village 4 km SSW on 7 September. The Tokyo VAAC reported that on 13 September ash plumes rose to an altitude of 1.8 km and drifted SE. JMA noted that parts of local structures shook in association with explosions that occurred on 24 September. Explosions and rumbling were heard on the island.

This compilation of synonyms and subsidiary features may not be comprehensive. Features are organized into four major categories: Cones, Craters, Domes, and Thermal Features. Synonyms of features appear indented below the primary name. In some cases additional feature type, elevation, or location details are provided.

Synonyms

Suwanose-zima | Moe-shima | Suwanose-jima

Cones

Feature Name

Feature Type

Elevation

Latitude

Longitude

Makko-dai

Stratovolcano

Nabedao
Negami-dake

Stratovolcano

409 m

Otake
Ontake

Stratovolcano

796 m

29° 38' 18" N

129° 42' 50" E

Susaki

Cone

Suwanosejima Oki

Submarine cone

29° 38' 30" N

129° 50' 0" E

Tondachi
Tondati

Cone

536 m

Craters

Feature Name

Feature Type

Elevation

Latitude

Longitude

Sakuchi

Caldera

Tongama

Crater

Basic Data

Volcano Number

Last Known Eruption

Elevation

LatitudeLongitude

282030

2017 CE

796 m / 2611 ft

29.638°N
129.714°E

Volcano Types

Stratovolcano(es)
Pyroclastic cone(s)
Fissure vent(s)

Rock Types

MajorAndesite / Basaltic Andesite

Tectonic Setting

Subduction zoneOceanic crust (< 15 km)

Population

Within 5 kmWithin 10 kmWithin 30 kmWithin 100 km

107
107
325
1,966

Geological Summary

The 8-km-long, spindle-shaped island of Suwanosejima in the northern Ryukyu Islands consists of an andesitic stratovolcano with two historically active summit craters. The summit of the volcano is truncated by a large breached crater extending to the sea on the east flank that was formed by edifice collapse. Suwanosejima, one of Japan's most frequently active volcanoes, was in a state of intermittent strombolian activity from Otake, the NE summit crater, that began in 1949 and lasted until 1996, after which periods of inactivity lengthened. The largest historical eruption took place in 1813-14, when thick scoria deposits blanketed residential areas, and the SW crater produced two lava flows that reached the western coast. At the end of the eruption the summit of Otake collapsed forming a large debris avalanche and creating the horseshoe-shaped Sakuchi caldera, which extends to the eastern coast. The island remained uninhabited for about 70 years after the 1813-1814 eruption. Lava flows reached the eastern coast of the island in 1884. Only about 50 people live on the island.

References

The following references have all been used during the compilation of data for this volcano, it is not a comprehensive bibliography.

Emission History

There is no Emissions History data available for Suwanosejima.

Photo Gallery

A steam plume rises above On-take, the summit crater of Suwanose-jima volcano. The 8-km-long, spindle-shaped island of Suwanose-jima consists of a stratovolcano with two historically active summit craters. The dipping escarpment at the top of the photo is the NW wall of a large breached crater that extends to the sea on the east flank. The horseshoe-shaped crater was formed by edifice collapse. Suwanose-jima, one of Japan's most frequently active volcanoes, has been in a state of intermittent strombolian activity since 1949.

Photo by Yukio Hayakawa, 1998 (Gunma University).

An ash plume rising above the summit crater of Suwanose-jima is photographed from a helicopter on May 12, 2001. Vigorous eruptions on the evening of May 12 and the morning of the 13th deposited up to 3 cm of ash in Toshima village, about 4 km NNW of the crater. After a quiet period of about 10 months, eruptive activity had resumed on December 19, 2000 and continued intermittently until July 2004.

Photo courtesy of Japan Meteorological Agency, 2001.

This photo of the NE slope of Suwanose-jima taken on December 20, 2000, the day after the onset of an explosive eruption, shows the main active crater, On-take (labeled 1), and two subsidiary craters (also labeled). Explosive activity continued intermittently until July 2004.

Smithsonian Sample Collections Database

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WOVOdat is a database of volcanic unrest; instrumentally and visually recorded changes in seismicity, ground deformation, gas emission, and other parameters from their normal baselines. It is sponsored by the World Organization of Volcano Observatories (WOVO) and presently hosted at the Earth Observatory of Singapore.

Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity (MIROVA) is a near real time volcanic hot-spot detection system based on the analysis of MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) data. In particular, MIROVA uses the Middle InfraRed Radiation (MIR), measured over target volcanoes, in order to detect, locate and measure the heat radiation sourced from volcanic activity.

Using infrared satellite Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data, scientists at the Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology, University of Hawai'i, developed an automated system called MODVOLC to map thermal hot-spots in near real time. For each MODIS image, the algorithm automatically scans each 1 km pixel within it to check for high-temperature hot-spots. When one is found the date, time, location, and intensity are recorded. MODIS looks at every square km of the Earth every 48 hours, once during the day and once during the night, and the presence of two MODIS sensors in space allows at least four hot-spot observations every two days. Each day updated global maps are compiled to display the locations of all hot spots detected in the previous 24 hours. There is a drop-down list with volcano names which allow users to 'zoom-in' and examine the distribution of hot-spots at a variety of spatial scales.

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